Flexible Sleeve Retainment Element for Gas Spring Tension
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional gas spring assemblies with flexible sleeves are poorly suited for tensioned conditions, as they often experience undesirable separation between the flexible wall and the piston, leading to reduced retention and potential failure under load.
Innovation Solution
A flexible sleeve with a retainment element disposed along its inside surface, which abuttingly engages the piston, providing resistance to shear forces and rotation, thereby enhancing retention and preventing separation during tensioned conditions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If a snap-on construction is used to attach the flexible wall to the piston, then manufacturing cost is reduced and assembly is simplified, but retention under tension load is insufficient leading to separation
Solution Approach 1:
The retention system is divided into two functional parts: a snap-on attachment mechanism for simplified assembly and a retainment element (such as a retainment ridge or protrusion) that provides additional mechanical interengagement to prevent separation under tension load. This segmentation allows each part to optimize its specific function while working together.
Solution Approach 2:
A retainment element acts as an intermediary feature between the flexible wall and the piston. This intermediate structure provides the necessary mechanical interengagement to transfer tension loads effectively, bridging the gap between the simple snap-on attachment and the requirement for reliable retention under load.
2Ease of operation
If conventional flexible sleeve constructions are used, then assembly is simple, but the flexible wall separates from the piston under tension conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The retainment element is designed to be flexible or movable, allowing it to deform during assembly to facilitate simple snap-on attachment, then elastic recover or lock into position to provide stable retention under tension load. This dynamic behavior enables both easy assembly and reliable retention.
Solution Approach 2:
The flexible sleeve is constructed using composite materials or multi-layer structures that combine flexibility for assembly with sufficient strength and rigidity to maintain retention under tension conditions, resolving the contradiction between ease of operation and stability.
Data Source
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AI summary
A flexible sleeve dimensioned for securement to an associated end member for an associated gas spring assembly includes a flexible wall. An annular reinforcement member is embedded within the flexible wall. A retainment element that includes an element surface is disposed along the flexible wall such that at least the element surface is outwardly exposed. At least one gas spring piston, at least one gas spring assembly and at least one method are also included.